As the Kashmir Valley grapples with an intense heatwave, the serene hill station of Sonamarg in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district has emerged as a much-needed sanctuary for locals seeking respite from the sweltering temperatures.
With mercury levels soaring to nearly 33°C in Srinagar, an increasing number of families, youths, and schoolchildren are flocking to Sonamarg to find relief. The picturesque area, famed for its lush meadows, snow-capped mountains, and the sparkling Sindh stream, has become a hub of activity. Visitors are setting up tents along the riverbanks, lighting bonfires, and venturing into the icy waters to cool off.
Children were seen playing in the shallow streams, while elders sought comfort under the shade of trees, enjoying homemade meals and taking in the refreshing mountain air. For many, this brief getaway offers a much-needed escape from the heat and the hustle and bustle of city life.
“This weather is unbearable in Srinagar right now. We couldn’t stay indoors, so we decided to spend a day by the stream. The breeze and cool water make it so much more comfortable,” said Asif Ahmad, a resident of Srinagar, as he relaxed by the river with his family.
The surge in visitors has provided a significant boost to the local economy, with small vendors and roadside stall owners reporting a sharp rise in business. Local snacks, beverages, and traditional handicrafts are selling like hotcakes as the flow of tourists continues to grow.
While Sonamarg’s cool climate offers a natural escape from the heat, authorities have urged visitors to be mindful of the area’s fragile ecology. The Sonamarg Development Authority, along with local environmental groups, has issued a plea for tourists to avoid littering and help preserve the pristine surroundings.
With the meteorological department predicting no immediate end to the heatwave, it’s expected that hill resorts like Sonamarg will continue to attract even larger crowds in the coming days.
Often referred to as the “Meadow of Gold,” Sonamarg is once again living up to its name—this time not just for its breathtaking beauty but for offering the much-needed comfort to those seeking relief from the intense heat sweeping across the valley.
